THE whole family is invited to come and meet local firefighters and learn about home fire safety at the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Open Day on Saturday, 13 May 2023.

Firefighters will be opening the doors to Salamander Bay Fire Station and Raymond Terrace Fire Station from 10am to 2pm with a range of free activities including firefighting demonstrations, station tours and safety presentations.

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Families will also be able to check out fire trucks, learn about firefighting equipment and chat to local firefighters about the critical work they do to keep communities safe.

Captain Malcolm Smith said the Open Day is an opportunity to show people that FRNSW firefighters do so much more than fight fires.

“From road crashes, hazardous material incidents and natural disasters to urban search and rescue, medical responses and humanitarian relief, our firefighters are prepared for anything and ready to help anyone, anytime, anywhere.”

Captain Smith said the day is also a great time to talk to the experts about home fire safety in the lead up to winter.

“This year we want you to ask yourself ‘are you ready?’ and prepare your homes early for winter by checking your smoke alarms and knowing what to do when it sounds.

“Only working smoke alarms save lives and a home fire escape plan helps you to get out and stay out if there is a fire.

“Statistics indicate the risk of fatality in a house fire is halved if the home has a working smoke alarm.

“Smoke alarms should be tested every month, vacuumed every six months and replaced every ten years.

“Replaceable batteries should be changed each year.

“We also see a ten percent increase in the number of home fires during the winter months, with more fires starting in bedrooms and lounge rooms due to things like heaters and electric blankets,” he said.

“Our fire station doors are open on May 13 so come and meet your local firefighters and learn how to keep your family safe from fire and other potential dangers,” he said.

For more information on the FRNSW Open Day visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au/openday.

By Marian SAMPSON